My limp in the morning is more visible than usual. Or at least evident enough to get a few glances and several smirks as I made my way to the hall. Even Zubair is kind enough to help me sit down.

The meal was pleasant too. My mate, in an act of pity or mischief, I can’t tell, let me eat some new foods off his plate. The pleasantness continued onto the next day.

Now's my chance.

Just as his fellow Heir Candidates were about to leave, I call out:

Mate, could we speak for a moment?

Everyone's eyes widened at my initiative before Zubair only smirks 

Of course, mate.

I lead him to a communal garden I found long ago

While he stares mildly interested I go for it

I may not have agreed with everything Elu said

But feeling Zubair twitch beneath me as I straddled him 

I see he wasn’t all wrong

It seems as though you like an audience during your matings Zubair.

Oh, is the real kitten coming out to play? Was your little dog sad the other night?

Something like that, but it’s not why I called you here. 

Ooh, now I’m intrigued.

I stopped the hands beginning to circle my waist as I meet him eye to eye

Not that either. 

I was wondering if I could clear the air with you.

Zubair, I don’t know the extent of what you assume about me, but I want to say clearly that I have no intention of trying to cause division between you and your lovers. I kindly ask you to give me the same courtesy, as well as respect on our nights together. There’s no reason for us to not get along and honor each’s respective lives. I won’t interfere with yours, nor you mine.

For several moments all he did was stare at me

As he opens his mouth 

Booming laughter is not what I expected

That is what they all say.

And do they all get severely injured every time they copulate with you?

The mirth in his eyes dries as quickly as my sex does when it’s his night 

I grow tired of our old routine. Wasn’t the other night enjoyable?

I brush my chest against his, watching his eyes darken for a second at that or the memory of before.

I won’t deny that. You were very forward.

Our lips are only a breath a part as I respond

As were you. If you haven’t gotten by now, I’ll tell you now. As our private affairs go, from now on, whatever you give, I’ll return back two fold. 

Continue to treat me hazardously in bed, and you’ll be the one limping. 

And I simply leave him there

Without so much as a glance back